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Crispy Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

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Crispy, golden pork chops are seared to perfection and finished in a sweet-tart apple cider glaze. This quick and easy dinner comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick (about 1 ½ to 2 pounds total)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Take the pork chops out of the fridge and pat them very dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let them sit on the counter for about 10 minutes to come up to room temperature.
  2. Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, carefully lay the pork chops in the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C). Transfer the chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the apple cider to the pan, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Let the cider bubble and reduce for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Whisk in the butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the sprig of thyme. Stir until the butter is melted and the glaze is smooth and glossy.
  5. Return the pork chops to the pan, nestling them into the glaze. Spoon some glaze over the tops. Let them simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness.
  6. Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter. Let the glaze simmer for another minute or two to thicken slightly, then pour it over the chops. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.

Notes

Pat the pork chops very dry for a crispy crust. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. If the glaze is too thin, whisk in a teaspoon of cold butter off the heat. If too thick, add a splash of cider or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, apple cider glaze, quick dinner, 30-minute meal, crispy pork chops, easy dinner, family dinner

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